A stretch of dangerous heat will grip the region Wednesday before strong storms move in on Thursday and usher in cooler weather for the weekend.
The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday for much of the D.C. metro area, including northern and central Virginia and parts of Maryland. Heat index values are expected to reach between 105 and 109 degrees, making it potentially hazardous for those spending extended time outdoors. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, remain in air-conditioned spaces when possible, and check on vulnerable neighbors and relatives.